Patients
Remote patient monitoring, or RPM, offers a lot of benefits for patients who participate in using at-home devices to monitor different aspects of their health. Learn more by exploring the topics below.
Using RPM helps to do the following:
- Help patients take control of their own health by learning what their measurements mean and how their lifestyle directly affects their health
- Improve how patients self-manage chronic diseases and illnesses such as heart health, lung/respiratory issues or diabetes
- Directly engage patients in their health care and treatment planning
- Keep people at home and out of the hospital or the emergency room
- Provide direct access to nurses who help patients monitor their health data and routinely check in with patients to discuss health concerns or provide education and encouragement
- Better understand health conditions and diseases
- Support patients in following their care plan
- Improve health and quality of life
What is remote patient monitoring (RPM)?
RPM uses digital technology to collect medical information from patients while they are at home and then safely and securely transmits that information electronically to health care providers for monitoring, assessment, interventions and recommendations. Patients can use devices to measure and track their blood sugar levels, blood oxygen levels, weight, heart rate and more.
Why is my provider having me do RPM?
RPM helps track your real-time health data from the comfort of your home. The data helps your health care team develop a care or treatment plan that is best for you.
How do I get enrolled in RPM services?
Talk with your doctor to find out if he or she participates in RPM. If so, ask whether you are eligible to participate.
Does my health insurance cover RPM?
- Medicare covers RPM services. Because it is an outpatient service, it is billed under Medicare Part B, and you will need to pay the 20-percent copay.
- Medicaid is run by your state’s department of health, so coverage can be different, depending on where you live. Contact your state’s Medicaid program and ask about RPM.
- Commercial health insurance companies vary. Ask your doctor to complete a prior authorization form before starting RPM.
Is my health information safe? Who has access to my health information with RPM?
RPM services follow the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), meaning your health information will be kept private and secure. The only people who will access your health information and data collected with RPM devices are your doctor or other health care provider and the RPM monitoring staff.
If I participate in RPM, do I still have to see my doctor?
Yes. You and your health care provider(s) are a team and will remain in control of your health and health care plan. RPM provides a layer of support and monitoring of your health to help you and your provider better understand your health and helps you live healthier.
